Swimming Pool Problems

Most of the swimming pool problems are related to the water used in the swimming pool. It is often very difficult to figure out the actual cause of a swimming pool problem, as many factors can be responsible for a single swimming pool problem. Let us see one by one the swimming pool problems and their solutions.

Swimming Pool Problems: Algae
Algae is a plant that can grow in the swimming pool water. It is the most common swimming pool problem and it gives rise to other problems, like making the surface slippery and blocking the filters installed in the pool. The growth of algae can lead to black spots at the base of the swimming pool and make the swimming pool water dark green or cloudy.

Possible reasons:

• Inadequate level of chlorine in the water.
• Improper pool maintenance.

Solutions:

• Use chlorine in adequate quantities.
• Brush the parts of pool where algae is present.
• Use of algaecide is also recommended.

Prevention:

• Maintain a proper level of chlorine (3 ppm) in the pool water.
• A mixture of chlorine and algaecide is recommended, if algae is a recurrent problem.

Swimming Pool Problem: Cloudy water
Cloudy pool water can disappoint a swimmer, as the swimming pool does not look pleasant.

Possible reasons:

• Presence of algae.
• Low chlorine level.
• Improper filtration (Filter is not working properly).
• High level of pH and alkalinity in the water.

Solutions:

• Increase the level of chlorine.
• Use dry acid to lower the pH level.

Prevention:

• Keep an eye on the filtration system.
• Maintain a consistent and proper pH and chlorine level.

Swimming Pool Problem: Chlorine smell
The second-most common complaint of swimming pool owners is unclean water even when they can smell chlorine. This smell is not of chlorine, but a compound called chloramine that is formed from free chlorine, ammonia and nitrogen content. The sweat, urine and other body wastes of the swimmers can also be the source of ammonia.

Possible reasons:

• Improper pH level.
• Large quantity of free chlorine.

Solutions:

• Elevate the level of chlorine.
• Regulate the pH level to the range of 7.2 to 7.8.

Prevention:

• Maintain a proper level of pH, alkalinity and ensure less amounts of free chlorine.

Swimming Pool Problem: Burning eyes, sore throat or irritation of skin
Many a times, it is observed that the swimmers complain about the above symptoms after swimming. The core reason for this swimming pool problem can be the improper combination of solutions used in the swimming pool water.

Possible reasons:

• Too high or too low pH level.
• Too low alkalinity.
• Increased chloramines.

Solutions:

• If pH is high, decrease the pH using dry acid.
• If pH is low, increase the pH using soda ash.

Prevention:

• Try to maintain a pH level of 7.4.
• Keep a check on the level of free chlorine.

Swimming Pool Problem: Staining
Stains present on the surface of the swimming pool water can reduce the pleasant view of the swimming pool. Proper maintenance of the swimming pool water can avoid this problem.

Possible reasons:

• Low pH level.
• Low alkalinity level.
• Corrosion of the metals used in swimming pool, like pipes.

Solutions:

• Complete replacement of water is recommended.
• Contact a swimming pool professional about this problem, as it is severe.

Prevention:

• Use PVC or copper pipes instead of metal pipes.
• Check pH levels regularly.

In conclusion, a proper maintenance of the pH and chlorine level in swimming pool water can help prevent all the above problems. Replace the pool water regularly and use the test kits properly.